2018 Honda Ridgeline: A Versatile Mid-Size Pickup
The 2018 Honda Ridgeline carved a unique niche in the mid-size pickup truck segment by prioritizing a car-like driving experience, innovative features, and everyday practicality over traditional truck ruggedness. It was designed for buyers who needed the utility of a truck but desired the comfort and refinement of an SUV.
Highlights
- Powertrain: All 2018 Ridgeline models were powered by a robust 3.5-liter V6 engine, producing 280 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque. This engine was paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission in the front-wheel-drive models and a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission in the all-wheel-drive variants, contributing to a smooth and responsive driving feel.
- Safety Features: Honda's commitment to safety was evident with the inclusion of the Honda Sensing® suite as standard on most trims (optional on RT). This comprehensive package included:
- Collision Mitigation Braking System™ (CMBS™): Automatically applies brake pressure to help slow or stop the vehicle if an unavoidable frontal collision is detected.
- Road Departure Mitigation System (RDM): Can detect if you're about to leave the road and can provide steering assistance or braking to keep you in your lane.
- Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC): Maintains a set speed and following distance from the vehicle ahead, automatically adjusting to traffic conditions.
- Lane Keeping Assist System (LKAS): Helps keep the vehicle centered in its lane by providing gentle steering inputs.
- Blind Spot Information System (BSI): Alerts the driver when a vehicle is detected in their blind spot.
- Cross Traffic Monitor: Alerts the driver to approaching vehicles from the side when backing up.
- Trim Summary: The 2018 Ridgeline was offered in a range of trims, each building upon the previous one:
- RT: The base model, offering a solid foundation of features and standard front-wheel drive.
- RTS: Added more comfort and convenience features, often including upgraded wheels and a power driver's seat.
- Sport: Distinguished itself with sportier exterior styling cues, including unique wheels and trim accents, along with enhanced interior features.
- RTL: Focused on luxury with leather-trimmed seating, heated front seats, and a power moonroof.
- RTL-T: Further enhanced luxury with a touchscreen infotainment system, navigation, and Apple CarPlay/Android Auto integration.
- RTL-E: The top-tier trim, boasting a premium audio system, a dual-action tailgate, a truck-bed audio system, and advanced safety features like the Blind Spot Information System and Cross Traffic Monitor as standard.
- Black Edition: Aesthetically driven, this trim featured exclusive black exterior and interior accents, unique wheels, and all the premium features of the RTL-E.
- Notable Aspects:
- Unibody Construction: Unlike traditional body-on-frame trucks, the Ridgeline utilizes unibody construction, similar to SUVs and cars. This contributes significantly to its refined ride, quieter cabin, and more car-like handling.
- In-Bed Trunk: A signature feature, the Ridgeline boasts a lockable, weather-resistant storage compartment in the bed floor. This provides secure storage for valuables and can even serve as an extra cooler for tailgating.
- Dual-Action Tailgate: The tailgate can either swing open like a traditional tailgate or open to the side, providing easier access to the in-bed trunk and the cargo area.
- Intelligent Traction Control: Available on AWD models, this system offers different modes (Normal, Snow, Mud, Sand) to optimize traction in various conditions.
What to Expect
Ownership Experience: Owning a 2018 Honda Ridgeline typically means a comfortable and user-friendly experience. Its car-like ride quality makes it a pleasure for daily commuting, long road trips, and navigating urban environments. The cabin is generally quiet and well-appointed, especially in the higher trims, offering ample passenger space and a user-friendly layout of controls. Loading and unloading items in the bed is also made easier by its lower ride height compared to many traditional trucks.
Maintenance: As a Honda product, the Ridgeline is expected to have good reliability. Routine maintenance will involve oil changes, tire rotations, brake checks, and fluid replacements. Given its shared components with other Honda vehicles, parts availability and servicing should be straightforward at most dealerships and independent mechanics. Following Honda's recommended maintenance schedule will be key to ensuring longevity and optimal performance.
Insurance: Insurance costs for a 2018 Honda Ridgeline will vary depending on factors like your location, driving record, chosen coverage levels, and the specific trim of the vehicle. However, generally speaking, as a mid-size pickup with good safety ratings and a reputation for reliability, it is unlikely to be prohibitively expensive to insure compared to other vehicles in its class.
Potential Considerations
- Towing and Payload Capacity: While capable, the Ridgeline's towing and payload capacities are generally lower than those of traditional body-on-frame mid-size trucks. Buyers who regularly haul heavy loads or tow large trailers might find it less suited to their needs.
- Off-Road Prowess: While the all-wheel-drive system and intelligent traction control offer respectable capability in light off-roading or slippery conditions, the Ridgeline is not designed for serious rock crawling or extreme off-road adventures. Its lower ground clearance and more car-like suspension are optimized for on-road comfort.
- Interior Design: While functional and well-built, some critics noted that the interior design, particularly in lower trims, could feel a bit plain or dated compared to some competitors.
- Exclusivity of Features: Some of the more unique features, like the in-bed audio system or the dual-action tailgate, were primarily found on the higher, more expensive trims.
Overall Summary
The 2018 Honda Ridgeline stands out as a highly practical and comfortable choice for those seeking a mid-size pickup truck with a more refined and car-like demeanor. Its innovative features, such as the in-bed trunk and dual-action tailgate, offer unique utility. Coupled with a smooth V6 engine, standard safety technologies, and Honda's reputation for reliability, the Ridgeline is an excellent option for everyday use, light-duty hauling, and weekend adventures where comfort and versatility are prioritized over extreme ruggedness.
